2 more Venezuelan migrants charged with theft from Oak Brook Macy's
OAK BROOK, Ill. - Charges have been filed against two more migrants for an alleged burglary at the Macy's store in west suburban Oak Brook on Friday.
Edys Alberto Herrera-Gotopo, 20, and Johan Gavidia-Rojas, 18, both of Venezuela and staying in Chicago, appeared in court Saturday for a felony charge of retail theft, according to DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin. Judge Anne Therieau Hayes denied a motion to detain the men prior to trial, Berlin said in a statement.
Prosecutors said the men were both carrying empty bags when they entered the Macy's store together around 7:10 p.m. on Friday. Working as a team, one of the men put various clothing items in his bag while the other man acted as a lookout, before the men switched roles, according to the allegations.
[L-R] Johan Gavidia-Rojas, 18, and Edys Alberto Herrera-Gotopo. (DuPage County States Attorneys Office)
Once they were finished, they left the store with approximately $665 worth of unpaid merchandise, and were immediately met by Oak Brook police officers.
Herrera-Gotopo was taken into custody but Gavidia-Rojas tried to flee from police, but was arrested after a brief foot pursuit.
DuPage County officials warn of disturbing trend as 5 migrants face burglary charges
Five Venezuelan migrants have been arrested and charged in two separate incidents within the last week, and DuPage County's top prosecutor says it's part of a disturbing trend in the western suburbs.
"The quick apprehension of the defendants in this case sends the message that law enforcement in DuPage County is ready for any would-be shoplifters and if you steal from any of our retail establishments, you will be arrested, charged and prosecuted," Berlin said in a statement.
Herrera-Gotopo is expected to appear in court again on Dec. 11 and Gavidia-Rojas has a scheduled court date for Dec. 18. Both men are prohibited from entering the Oak Brook Macy's as a condition of their release, Berlin said.